Chapter 5 Chemical Methods for Preparation of Nanoparticles in Solution

The technology for synthesis of nanomaterials with defined dimensions, structure and composition is one of the most important pre-requisite criteria before new applications such as bio-separation, drug delivery, imaging, catalysis, sensing and data storage can be systematically studied. Chemical synthesis represents a key approach for the production of materials, which generally involves a number of steps taking place in liquid or gas phase. The formation of atoms can be accomplished by using chemical reaction(s) under controlled but mild reaction conditions. Thus, freshly formed atoms can then undergo elementary nucleation followed by growth processes leading to the formation of defined nanoparticles. This chapter will highlight some common chemical methodologies for the synthesis of metal and metal core-shell nanoparticles with particular emphasis on the important roles of solvent, capping agent, additive and stabilizer for kinetic controls of tailored nanomaterials. © 2009 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved